ODH urges precaution of possible health effects of poor air quality from wildfire smoke

COLUMBUS — The Ohio Department of Health is encouraging Ohioans to be aware of possible health effects as smoke from Canadian wildfires is causing poor air quality in the state.

>>Canadian wildfire smoke grips the Miami Valley

For the second time in three weeks, the wildfire smoke has created unhealthy conditions in Ohio, according to AirNow.gov.

The Miami Valley Regional Planning Commission (MVRPC) in conjunction with the Regional Air Pollution Control Agency (RAPCA) has also issued an Air Quality Alert for Clark, Darke, Miami, Montgomery, and Preble Counties for today.

In addition, the National Weather Service has also issued an Air Quality Alert for those counties in addition to Butler, Union (IN), Warren, and Wayne (IN) counties now until midnight Wednesday.

“It is important to take poor air quality seriously, as exposure to smoke can cause health problems,” said Dr. Bruce Vanderhoff, ODH Director. “Certain groups of people are at higher risk, such as those with chronic heart or lung disease, children, the elderly, and pregnant women. Please take precautions until these conditions improve.”

>>Clear overnight, cool; Air Quality Alert for most Wednesday due to wildfire smoke

Smoke from the wildfires contains particulates and can be inhaled into the lungs and cause irritation of the eyes, nose or throat, coughing, shortness of breath, and chest pain, ODH said. It can also aggravate chronic heart and lung conditions.

ODH says the most precaution is to limit outdoor activity. They also said it’s important to check in on anyone who is more at risk and to carefully monitor children.

To see real-time air quality, visit this website.

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